A young boy describes the final day of his dog’s life, a day his family has proclaimed Jasper’s Day. Their aging, beloved pet has cancer, and they have decided to end his suffering. But first, they spend a day doing many of the things Jasper has loved over the years. Then the boy and his mother wait at home while their father takes Jasper to the vet. When he returns, the family buries Jasper in their yard. “Today was the hardest day of my life,” the boy says. “But I’m glad we celebrated Jaspers Day. Because it was a good day, too.” Marjorie Blain Parker’s sensitive, realistic story about the illness and death of a pet addresses the topic with emotional honesty. The story is illustrated in full-color art done in chalk pastels. (Ages 4-8)

Today Riley's family is celebrating Jasper's Day. Everything they do will be in honor of Jasper -- sort of like a birthday. But it isn't Jasper's birthday. The old dog's cancer has gotten really bad. Riley knows they can't let him suffer any longer, but letting go will be the hardest thing he's ever had to do.

Marjorie Blain Parker's tender story is filled with smiles, tears and the joy of special memories, and Janet Wilson's gentle pastels capture the depth of love shared by a boy and his dog. Together, they speak of acceptance, remembrance and the importance of cherishing life's every moment.